The most commonly used liquid to freeze popsicles is water. Other liquids like juice, coconut milk, and alcoholic beverages can also be used. When selecting a liquid, consider texture, taste, and nutrition of the finished product. Some recipes suggest adding sugar to water or juice for a sweeter treat, while others may replace water with non-dairy alternatives like coconut or almond milk for a creamier result. Alcoholic pops will take longer to freeze and have a different texture compared to creamy lollies with yogurt.
Popsicles typically take 2-3 hours to freeze, but many professionals prefer to freeze them overnight to ensure they’re fully set. To create the best homemade popsicles, use an accurate recipe with the right liquids and freezer temperature. If you’re a beginner, starting with a simple fruit puree is recommended. In commercial settings, most equipment for ice pop production uses a super-chilled liquid like alcohol, salt water, or glycol to quickly freeze the pops in minutes. The liquid circulates around the molds with propellers or pumps.
After the initial freezing, wrapping pops in plastic bags or airtight containers and freezing them again can help them hold their shape and prevent them from melting too quickly.